Zion Johnson signs with Browns
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Zion Johnson signs with Browns
While the Los Angeles Chargers signed Tyler Biadasz to help bolster their offensive line, they have just lost a highly integral part of their O-line rotation to the Cleveland Browns.
According to Adam Schefter, the Browns have reached an agreement on the signing of guard Zion Johnson to a three year, 49.5 million dollar deal, with 32.4 million dollars guaranteed. This comes after rumors that Zion Johnson could have been an extension candidate. Johnson has been a reliable part of the Chargers O-line throughout his career, but had been questioned for his play countless times. As a result, the Browns were ready to pounce.
To some, this move will come as no surprise however after the Chargers declined his fifth year option. Still, after a solid 2025 season, the Chargers were left in a bit of a dilemma. After all, he logged a significant number of snaps, while allowing a career low in pressures and sacks. He was also second amongst all guards last season in run block win rate according to ESPN.
A Fresh Opportunity in Cleveland
For the Browns, this is a massive move as they needed a lot of help along the offensive line. With their entire starting offensive line slated to hit free agency, they needed a player up front who could be an immediate plug and play starter. While there have been questions of Johnson’s consistency, he can still be a player with high upside.
Drafted in the first round in 2022 by the Chargers, Zion Johnson actually made the All Rookie team in a year he was not projected to earn significant playing time. he can also play multiple guard spots as he moved from the right to the left in 2023. He also took snaps under center in a highly trying year for the Chargers’ O-line.
He will now be expected to replace perhaps one of the Browns’ best O-linemen over the past few years in Joel Bitonio, who is a seven time Pro Bowler and considered one of the best guards in the league. It also means a move to a new look along the line for the Browns, as they also acquired Tytus Howard from the Texans before the free agency period began.
Chargers Turn Toward the Future Up Front
For the Chargers, this means another offensive lineman gone from last year’s roster as they look for more athletic types that will fit Mike McDaniel’s new scheme. With the cutting of Mekhi Becton and the retirement of Bradley Bozeman, the Chargers should now be focused on finding some more premier guard talent. They have their center in Tyler Biadasz, but many expect them to draft an O-lineman with their first round draft pick. Perhaps Penn State’s Vega Ioane could be on the table.
The loss of Johnson is a painful one for the Chargers, as he was a vital depth piece throughout his time with them. However, his failure to establish himself as a true starter may have led to the Chargers being okay enough to allow him to leave in free agency. It’s a massive win for the Browns…and an interesting loss for the Chargers.